SOCIAL MEDIA EXPOSURE AND ITS INFLUENCE AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

This study examines the complex connections between undergraduate academic accomplishment and social networking site use. Examining how social media affects students' connections and friendships, academic achievement, physical and mental well-being, and interpersonal interactions is one of the research's main objectives. Random sampling was used to select participants for this study, and 87 students in all were engaged using a mixture of convenient sampling and random sample techniques. A self-created survey called "Social Media Usage and Influence on Undergraduate Students" was used to collect the data. The social media platforms that undergraduates utilize are revealed by the study. It also seeks to clarify the attitudes, customs, and patterns around student use of social media. Studies reveal that the most popular apps used by college students are WhatsApp (87.40%) followed by Facebook (80.50%), Instagram (89.70%), YouTube (80.50%), Twitter (26.40%), LinkedIn (40.20%), Google Plus (13.80%), Snapchat (46%), and any other’s (14.90 %). Students use social media for between 2 – 3 hours a day on average. According to their perceptions, socialization (29%), information purpose (27%), academic goals (15%), business (8%), and entrainment (21%), are the main reasons people use social media. Internet addiction (41%), diversions (50%), antisocial behavior (9%), cyberbullying (0%), are just a few of the harmful effects of social networking sites on undergraduate education that the survey also uncovers. This study focuses at the motivations underlying online behavior, including the frequency, length, and platforms that are chosen. It addresses issues including anxiety, sadness, sleep habits, and exercise levels as it investigates the impact of social media on the emotional and physical well-being of students. The findings are intended to give professionals, teachers, and student’s useful knowledge for navigating the digital world wisely. This study gives an extensive overview of how social networking networks are incorporated into everyday activities, which is crucial information for improving student results and awareness in the age of digital media. Keywords: Social media, Undergraduate students, Influence, Internet use, communication